Over 200 diseases, including diarrhoea, typhoid and cholera, are caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria and viruses. Foodborne diseases encompass a wide range of illnesses from gastrointestinal issues and even neurological diseases. Diarrhoea in particular is a major health problem in all countries of the world, especially affecting low — and middle-income countries and children under 5 years of age.
According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 600 million people fall ill from consuming contaminated food each year, resulting in 420,000 deaths. Children under 5 years old, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to foodborne illness. Furthermore, improper usage of antibiotics makes these illnesses resistant to antibiotic treatments.
The government and relevant authorities have a responsibility to address this issue and ensure that citizens are provided with hygienic environments to help prevent the spread of disease. By raising awareness about foodborne illnesses, serious consequences can be effectively avoided.
Nida Azeem
Pidrak, Balochistan
